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Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Windows 10

Review the frequently asked questions (FAQs) to learn more about the features of Windows 10.

What do I do if I forget my Windows password?

If you forget the password for your Microsoft account and cannot sign in to Windows, you can reset the password using a different device.

Go to the Microsoft Recover your account page (in English), and then follow the on-screen directions to reset your password.

How do I open my documents folder in Windows?

To open your documents folder, type documents in the search box on the taskbar. Click the folder in the search results.

Searching for documents

How do I change the default apps for my files in Windows?

In Windows, search for and open Default apps. Scroll through the Choose default apps list, click an app, and then make any desired changes.

Changing the default apps

How do I change the default web browser in Windows?

In Windows, search for and open the Default apps. Scroll through the Choose default apps list, click the app under Web browser, and then select the web browser you want to use.

Changing the default web browser

How do I change my background picture in Windows?

You can change the background picture for the Start screen and the Lock screen.

Change the Windows desktop background

You can personalize the pattern or image on the Start screen background.

  1. In Windows, search for and open Background image settings. You can also right-click an open area of the desktop and then select Personalize.

  2. To change the image or color that displays in the background, select Picture, Solid color, or Slideshow from the drop-down menu.

    Background and color options
  3. Choose a picture, color, slideshow, or click Browse to select one of your pictures or slideshows.

  4. To change the way the picture displays on the background, select Fill, Fit, Stretch, Tile, Center, or Span from the drop-down menu. Changes take effect immediately.

    Change the background fit.

Changing the background picture for the Windows Lock screen

Use the following instructions to customize your computer background for the Lock screen.

  1. Right-click an empty space on the desktop, and then select Personalize.

  2. In the Lock screen options, under Background, select from Windows Spotlight, Picture, or Slideshow.

    Selecting a picture for the Lock screen
  3. Choose a picture or slideshow, or click Browse to select one your pictures or slideshows.

How do I change my Windows account picture?

Use the following steps to change your account picture:

  1. In Windows, search for and open Manage your account.

  2. On the Accounts window, select Your info.

  3. Under Create your picture, select Camera to take a picture or Browse for one to select a saved picture.

    Changing your account picture

How do I add a folder to Start in Windows?

Use the following steps to add a folder to the Start screen.

  1. In Windows, search for and open File Explorer.

  2. Navigate to the folder you want to pin to the Start screen, right-click the folder, and then click Pin to Start.

    Pinning the Documents folder to the Start screen

The folder tile displays on the Start screen.

Documents tile
The Documents folder tile on the Start screen

Where did the Windows desktop gadgets go?

Desktop gadgets are not supported in Windows 10.

Where is Windows Media Center?

Windows Media Center is not part of Windows 10 and is no longer available after an upgrade to Windows 10. If your device came with a DVD player, a DVD playback app was probably included. Microsoft also has a DVD player app you can purchase in the Microsoft Store app.

Where is Control Panel?

To open Control Panel, use the search box on the taskbar to search for and open Control Panel.

Opening Control Panel

Where is Device Manager?

You can right-click Start or use a keyboard shortcut to open Device Manager.

To open Device Manager, press the Windows logo key + X, and then click Device Manager.

Opening Device Manager

Where is Windows Movie Maker?

Windows Movie Maker is not included in Windows 10. To create your own movies, use another software program such as CyberLink Media Suite.

Where is Windows DVD Maker?

Windows DVD Maker is not included in Windows 10. To create your own video discs using the DVD format, use another software program such as CyberLink Media Suite.